Metro News & Reviews

While Dia de Los Muertos is technically still a week away, the celebrations are starting early in many corners of the city. That’s why this week’s iteration of Go Metro Weekends is devoted to Day of the Dead events you can reach via Metro Bus or Rail.

This weekend:

Hollywood Forever will throw their annual Dia de Los Muertos bash this Saturday from noon to midnight. The theme for this year’s gathering is Shamanic Visions of the Huichol. Tickets are $20 and as far as we can tell, costumes are a must… (Metro Red Line to Hollywood/Vine Station, then walk 20 minutes south on Vine and east on Santa Monica Boulevard.)

Those who want to celebrate in a more laid-back manner can check out over 75 altares at Grand Park. Swing by this Saturday afternoon and you can also visit the many cultural institutions participating in the Grand Avenue Arts: All Access event. Saturday evening, Grand Park hosts La Noche de Ofrendas from 7 to 9 p.m. with dance, music, spoken-word performances, food trucks, and construction of a community altar. (Metro Red or Purple Line to Civic Center/Grand Park Station or Metro Gold Line to Little Tokyo/Arts District Station.)

Queen Mary’s Dark Harbor is open 7 p.m. to midnight on weekdays, and from 7 p.m. to 1 a.m. on weeknights. Tickets start at $20. (Metro Blue Line to Downtown Long Beach Station)

The City of Santa Monica DoTD celebration will take place next Sunday, Nov. 1 from 1 to 4 p.m. at Woodlawn Cemetery. (Big Blue Bus 7 to Pico WB/17th Street. Event also offers free valet bike parking.)

Canoga Park will close down five blocks of Sherman Way between Vasser and Canoga Avenue in the Valley for their own Dia de Los Muertos Family Art Festival, Nov. 1 from 5 to 8 p.m. (Metro Orange Line to Canoga Station then walk 15 minutes north on Canoga Avenue.)

Last, but certainly not least, is the Self Help Graphics Return of the Souls DoTD fiesta. Held Nov. 1 in Boyle Heights, guests can participate in a procession from Mariachi Plaza at 3 p.m., or join the celebration in full swing at Mendez Learning Center (1200 Plaza del Sol East, 90033) near Pico/Aliso Station. Attendance is free, or you can purchase a Day of the Dead package to save on food, treats, souvenirs and a fast pass for some lines.

Canoga Park will close down five blocks of Sherman Way between Vasser and Canoga Avenue in the Valley for their own Dia de Los Muertos Family Art Festival, Nov. 1 from 5 to 8 p.m. (Metro Orange Line to Canoga Station then walk 15 minutes north on Canoga Avenue.)